Having a background in social marketing and public relations (and a genuine passion), I find myself more often than not surround by like minds working in like spaces. As I mentioned, I know a lot of really incredible people in the space that encourage development and growth to stay passionate. I love the space I’m in and the people I know. Love it.
And while my close friends and family don’t work in the space, they’ve been around long enough to know every little detail of what my career entails, so they get it. And what’s even cooler, is they ask questions. They’re interested. Because they love me. Love it.
Earlier this month I moved in to an apartment with a guy who works in finance and a girl who is an HIV researcher (which my mom is, as well, just FYI) and are in no way connected with my space. And in a conversation to explain what I do, I realized I was coming off affronted and gruff when I thought, “How can they like, honestly not get it?” Ew, Jessica, ew. Bad form.
The more I got to thinking about it, the more I liked the idea of living in a social media/marketing/PR free zone. It’s a chance to step outside my marketing silo….
Silo or bucket...whatever.
…and experience new and interesting things. And I believe it may be exactly what I need to keep my thoughts fresh. I may even look for additional opportunities outside of my marketing network friends….maybe join a design group through Mood? Or become more active with my yoga friends? I absolutely love the idea of it!
What about you? What do you do to make sure you’re still connected with the world outside your network?
Great decision… so necessary! I’ve work in a non-profit professional association for the past three years. Since starting my personal development blog 6 months ago I’ve built a whole new network of inspiring individuals and make a lot of awesome connections. I would definitely say that blogging is a great way to connect with people that would normally be outside of your network.
Great post.
-Dena
Great post – I too work in a social media (media in general) industry and it’s hard to remove myself from social networking. However, I’ve realized the importance of networking events in the last year. It offers something that social networking can’t. It’s the whole idea of word of mouth marketing where a recommendation or story passed along goes a long way.